S.T.A.R. (Student Transfer Academic Retention)

Important update regarding the STAR/TRIO program at Antelope Valley College:

After serving students with dedication since 2001, the STAR program will conclude program services on August 31, 2025, as we were not selected for funding in the new federal TRIO grant cycle.

We understand this news may come as a surprise. Federal TRIO programs operate on five-year grant cycles, and each renewal involves a competitive national application process. While we are saddened by this outcome, we are proud of the lasting impact STAR has made on hundreds of students over the past two decades.

If you have any questions or need guidance on your next steps, please reach out. We are here to help.

All About STAR

The STAR (Student Transfer and Academic Retention) Program at Antelope Valley College is a federally funded TRIO Student Support Services program.  Our program was started during the fall semester of 2001. It is designed to identify promising students and provide support services above and beyond what is currently being offered by the college. Over the years the STAR Program has continued to expand and provide a wider range of services to reach more students who need assistance.

Mission

The mission of the STAR Student Support Services Program is to increase the college retention and graduation rates of eligible participants, and to facilitate the process of transition from one level of higher education to the next.  The program assists 170 eligible first-generation, low income, and/or students with a documented disability through the use of a variety of services to clarify their goals, succeed academically in their chosen program of study, and to graduate and/or transfer to the university level.

STAR Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the STAR Program?
  
  STAR is a Federally funded Student Support Services TRIO program. It is designed to identify promising students and provide instructional support services above and beyond what is currently being offered. The staff of the STAR program will work one-on-one with each student, to get to know them on a first-name basis and assist them with their academic and personal needs.
   
• Who is eligible for the STAR Student Support Services program?
  
  Eligibility is determined by federal guidelines. You are eligible to be a part of the program if:
  • neither of your parents, or adult care giver,  graduated from a four-year college
  • have U.S. citizenship or resident alien status
  • have documented financial need, academic need, and/or a documented disability

  Applicants will be selected two times per year.
   

• What services are provided?
  • Academic, goal setting and career counseling
  • Progress monitoring and personal support through regular meetings
  • A limited amount of supplemental grant aid scholarships
  • Cultural enrichment activities
  • Priority Registration
  • Four-year college visits and transfer assistance
  • Study skills, supplemental instruction and tutoring
  • Computer literacy and research skills
  • Summer bridge program
  • Academic enrichment class
  • Financial Aid and scholarship application assistance
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  • If you have questions call 661.722.6300, extension 6084.